Gender in the 21st Century

Be it resolved men are obsolete…

November 15, 2013

Since the beginning of human civilization, men have been the dominant sex. But now, for the first time, a host of indicators suggest that women are not only achieving equality with men but are fast emerging as the more successful sex of the species. Whether in education, employment, personal health or child rearing, statistics point to a rise in the status and power of women at home, in the workplace, and in traditional male bastions such as politics. But are men, and the age-old power structures associated with “maleness,” permanently in decline? Or do men still retain significant control over the workplace, the family and society at large, including women? In sum, where are the sexes headed in the 21st century?

To find out, the Munk Debates will move the motion: be it resolved men are obsolete...

Debate Results

Pre-Debate Results

16% Pro84% Con

Post-Debate Results

44% Pro56% Con

PRO gains 28%. PRO wins

Debaters

Pro

Hanna Rosin

“Women are not just catching up anymore; they are becoming the standard by which success is measured.”

Pro

Maureen Dowd

“So now that women don’t need men to reproduce and refinance, the question is, will we keep you around? And the answer is, ‘You know we need you in the way we need ice cream — you’ll be more ornamental.’ ”

Be it resolved that men are obsolete. That was the question last week at a high spirited edition of Toronto’s celebrated Munk Debates. Hanna Rosin and Maureen Dowd said, “OMG Yes!” Camille Paglia and Caitlin Moran: "No way!"